In a thrilling encounter in Barbados, West Indies secured a memorable series win against England, thanks to a spectacular cameo from Romario Shepherd. In a rain-curtailed game, the West Indies were on track in their run chase, needing 72 from 78 with seven wickets in hand. However, England’s Will Jacks turned the game around with a remarkable spell, taking three quick wickets.
Jacks dismissed Shimron Hetmyer, Sherfane Rutherford, and the well-set Keacy Carty in successive overs, reducing West Indies to 135/6 in pursuit of 188. A missed opportunity by England, failing to place a slip fielder when Shepherd was at 4, added to the drama. With 43 needed off 33, Shepherd unleashed with a six off Rehan Ahmed and capitalized on two full tosses from Gus Atkinson, hitting them for consecutive sixes.
That pivotal over cost England dearly, leaking 24 runs and relieving the pressure on West Indies. Shepherd’s onslaught ensured victory in the next over, securing a series triumph for the hosts.
Earlier in the day, rain forced the match into a 43-overs per side contest, and West Indies opted to bowl first. Debutant Matthew Forde made an impressive start, taking wickets in his first two overs, including the crucial dismissal of Zak Crawley. Forde’s excellent bowling, supported by Alzarri Joseph and Romario Shepherd, restricted England to 206/9 in 40 overs.
In response, despite England’s attempts to fight back, West Indies, led by Keacy Carty’s half-century and Alick Athanaze’s contribution, achieved the target with 31.4 overs, winning the series.
A spectacular display of cricketing prowess marked the series, leaving fans with a thrilling conclusion in Barbados.
Stay updated with all the cricketing action, follow Cricadium on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram
